Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and US envoy Steve Witkoff held a meeting on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York on Tuesday, September 22, 2026. According to Iranian media reports, Araghchi informed Witkoff of Tehran's conditions for reopening the Strait of Hormuz. The meeting comes amid heightened tensions between Iran and the US.
Araghchi told Witkoff that Tehran's demands included the immediate lifting of the US naval blockade, the prompt payment of all Iranian assets that have been frozen, and an end to the war on all resistance fronts. The Iranian Foreign Minister's comments were reported by the state news agency IRIB. The conditions set by Iran are seen as a significant development in the ongoing diplomatic efforts between the two nations.
The meeting between Araghchi and Witkoff is seen as a crucial step towards de-escalating tensions between Iran and the US. The two nations have been at odds over various issues, including the Strait of Hormuz, a vital waterway for global oil exports. Iran has been pressing for the lifting of US sanctions, which have had a significant impact on the country's economy.
The UN General Assembly in New York has been a platform for various diplomatic meetings and discussions. Egypt's Prime Minister, Madbouly, participated in a regional summit hosted by US President Trump, focusing on issues related to regional security. Meanwhile, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani has been engaging with world leaders, including Ukrainian President Zelensky, who expressed his desire for the war to end before winter.
The US has been imposing significant pressure on Iran through sanctions, which have had far-reaching consequences for the Iranian economy. The US refusal to grant a visa to Sudan's army chief for the UN General Assembly has also been seen as a move to isolate certain countries. Diplomatic sources have confirmed that the US is taking a hard stance on various issues, including Iran's nuclear program.
Egypt has been playing a significant role in promoting regional security, with President El-Sisi receiving the Cypriot defence minister to discuss deeper security cooperation. The country is also hosting the FDC Summit, which focuses on AI, data centres, and cybersecurity. Egypt's Foreign Minister, Abdelatty, has been urging Arab unity on Palestine and courting US investors in New York.
The developments on the diplomatic front come amid rising tensions in various regions, including Yemen and Turkey. The Italian-built luxury train is set to begin Cairo-Aswan journeys within a year, according to ENR. Meanwhile, Saudi civil defence has issued a warning for a province on the Yemen border, and Argentina players are urging coach Lionel Scaloni to stay amid contract talks.
Key points
- Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi met US envoy Steve Witkoff on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York.
- Araghchi informed Witkoff of Tehran's conditions for reopening the Strait of Hormuz, including the lifting of the US naval blockade.
- The meeting between Araghchi and Witkoff is seen as a crucial step towards de-escalating tensions between Iran and the US.
